Forms of Self-immolation in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Context: Self-immolation is one of the most violent methods of suicide and is considered a psychosocial problem. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the forms of self-immolation in Iran using a systematic review and metaanalysis method. Data Sources: In this study, seven papers published from 1999 to January 2020 were selected using keywords such as selfimmolation and Iran in SID, Google Scholar, PubMed,Web of Science (ISI), Scopus, and Elsevier databases. Study Selection: Study selection was done by two independent researchers. The results of studies were pooled using the Freeman- Tukey Double Arcsine Transformation method. The heterogeneity among studies was checked using the Q-test and I2 index. Data Extraction: Data were extracted using a data extraction form. Results: The total sample size was 9,470. The mortality rate in self-immolation subjects was estimated at 64% (95% CI: 0.56 - 0.73). The most important means of self-immolation was oil [89% (95% CI: 82% - 96%). Winter had the highest numbers of self-immolation [29% (95% CI: 22% - 37%). Meta-regression showed no significant correlation between the mortality of self-immolation and the year of study. Conclusions: To reduce self-immolation, easy access to oil must be restricted in families, and high-risk people should have access to psychology consultation.